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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Guide to La Jolla

Lunch spots with burgers

You have a specific window for lunch and you aren't settling for anything less than a proper burger.

Based on 641 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Jeffs’ Beach Burgers image 1
Jeffs’ Beach Burgers image 2
Jeffs’ Beach Burgers image 3
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Hamburger restaurant

Beachside hamburger spot offers a cozy patio with pink tables and blue stools under umbrellas, creating a relaxed, friendly vibe with excellent music. Seating is limited and tight, mostly outdoors, enhancing the casual, intimate atmosphere. The location near the coastline adds to the laid-back, surf-friendly energy.

Close to the shore, this spot offers convenient walking-distance lunch after water activities. Burgers, fries, and chicken souvlaki make for a solid beach lunch, served with friendly counter service.

Burgers here are delicious and often described as the best ever. The spot offers a great beachside vibe with friendly and generous staff.

People are saying

"I thought the burgers here were delicious and juicy."

"The onion rings are so crispy and satisfying."

"This lunch spot's burgers and fries hit the spot."

Good to know

1

Expect a wait time of 20-30 minutes on weekends.

2

The price for a burger, fries, and a drink is over $25.

3

There is limited seating available, especially during peak hours.

02
The Grill at Torrey Pines image 1
American restaurant

Outdoor dining overlooks a golf course and sea view, creating a relaxed, family-oriented atmosphere with live music and a bonfire area. The setting feels comfortable and scenic, especially during evening hours. The place attracts golfers, families, and friends gathering for casual meals and drinks.

Lunch offers a great menu with dishes that consistently exceed expectations. The spot serves amazing food and maintains a strong reputation for satisfying midday meals.

Burgers here stand out for their phenomenal taste and delicious onion rings on the side. The Drugstore Burger and Tuna Salad Sandwich also deliver strong flavors that complement the menu.

People are saying

"I took in the beautiful golf course view from our outdoor table."

"The tomato soup and grilled cheese are delicious comfort food."

"I found the burgers here to be excellent."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for dinner service to avoid long wait times.

2

The average meal cost is around $30 per person, excluding drinks.

3

The restaurant offers a scenic patio for outdoor dining with ocean views.

03
Zoya image 1
Restaurant

Open space with extraordinary decor and warm family-style vibe creates an inviting atmosphere. Indoor and outdoor seating options complement a full bar and on point music choice. Upscale energy suits those seeking authentic Mediterranean flavors in a beautiful setting.

Great views pair with a tasty lunch menu that suits casual meals or special occasions. Food tastes delicious and fits both lunch and dinner times.

Burgers here are well-balanced and tender, especially the Zoya Burger. They satisfy without feeling heavy or weighed down.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious and amazing."

"This lunch spot's chicken sandwich with orange sauce is so tasty."

"This burger was perfectly balanced and so satisfying."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs all day with $5 beer options.

2

Outdoor seating is available for guests with dogs.

3

The menu offers a variety of Mediterranean dishes.

04
Public House La Jolla image 1
American restaurant

Cozy converted building with indoor and outdoor seating including a heated shaded patio creates a homey vibe. Numerous sports screens and live music add casual energy. The atmosphere feels low-energy and relaxed, attracting those who enjoy a quiet spot for drinks and games.

Offers a relaxed and easy lunch experience with a lovely atmosphere.

Burgers feature seasoned meat with options like grass fed Wagyu cooked to order. Staff often cut burgers in half for sharing, and the outdoor patio offers a chill spot to enjoy them.

People are saying

"I loved their amazing craft beer selection."

"I found the burgers here to be great."

"The beer selection here is really great."

Good to know

1

Half-off burgers are available on Tuesdays.

2

Happy hour offers daily specials, including half-price sliders.

3

Parking is plentiful near the restaurant.

05
The Spot La Jolla image 1

Bar and grill with ocean views and an indoor-outdoor second story creates a lively, cozy atmosphere. Outdoor seating is dog friendly and popular, while multiple sports TVs show several games simultaneously. The place fills up and gets loud, especially later in the evening.

Generous portions and a warm, charming setting make lunch here enjoyable. It suits family trips and casual work outings with a reliable, comfortable vibe.

Lamb burgers stand out with blue cheese and marinated onions delivering strong flavors. Burgers come with classic toppings like cheese and bacon, cooked just right for a solid, satisfying taste.

People are saying

"The bar food here is some of the best I've ever had."

"I thought the burgers here were great and generously portioned."

"The Lunch Spot's service was friendly and excellent."

Good to know

1

Parking at The Spot can be challenging.

2

They have Trivia Night on Tuesdays.

3

Happy Hour gives $3 off appetizers.

06
Jose's CourtRoom image 1
Mexican restaurant

Outdoor seating offers ocean views with heaters and umbrellas for comfort. The atmosphere is lively and noisy with live guitar music and football highlights playing. Large, dog-friendly bar and fun, colorful vibe attract a diverse crowd.

Lunch here offers immediate seating on the patio with a beautiful ocean view from up the hill. The 3-6 PM happy hour works well for a late lunch or early dinner.

Monstrous size and mixed chorizo and beef make the burger stand out. The jalapeno corn relish adds a unique kick, and the large portion keeps quality intact.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious, fresh, and perfectly cooked."

"I loved watching the world go by from this lunch spot's patio."

"I found Jose's Burger to be extraordinary and unforgettable."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 3 to 6 PM with discounted drinks and snacks.

2

Discounted tacos are available until 7:00 PM.

3

A surcharge fee applies when paying with a credit card.

07
Torrey Pines Golf Course image 1
Public golf course

Golf course stretches along the coast with stunning ocean views and dramatic elevation changes. Atmosphere balances beautiful, forgiving landscapes with challenges for skilled players. Paragliders often add a unique visual element above the course.

Lunch here feels lively with a steady flow of guests. The manager can accommodate early seating requests, and the spot offers a mix of lunch and drinks in a relaxed setting.

The Drugstore Burger stands out with its classic style and occasional smoked pulled pork topping. It pairs well with onion rings and comes with a notable price, but the setting adds to the overall experience.

People are saying

"The ocean views here are absolutely stunning and breathtaking."

"The wraps and cocktails here are a must try."

"You have to try the Drugstore Burger; it's a top-shelf classic."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required at least 90 days in advance to secure a tee time.

2

Non-residents pay $117 for a round of golf, plus $65 for a cart.

3

Tee times are scheduled every 10 minutes, so arrive early.

08
Sea & Sky image 1
Californian restaurant

Top-floor setting offers spectacular ocean views and wide windows that frame the coastline. Live jazz music plays softly, creating a luxurious and cozy atmosphere with soft lighting that encourages lingering. Evening energy centers on the sunset backdrop and a full bar serving unique cocktails.

Lunch offers a simple menu with options like a wild salmon sandwich that can get messy and a well-prepared BLT. The setting is quiet during the week with few tables in use, but prices are on the higher side.

They serve salmon and tuna burgers alongside classic options. Three different burgers can be ordered to sample variety.

People are saying

"The view here is stunning, especially at sunset."

"This lunch spot has an amazing view of the sea and sky."

"I enjoyed a delicious cheeseburger cooked medium rare."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 3 to 5 pm, offering ocean views.

2

Parking is validated for guests dining at the restaurant.

3

Reservations are recommended for dinner, especially on weekends.

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La Jolla, San Diego

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